SpaceX, the rocket firm led by Elon Musk, has successfully deployed its 13th batch of spy satellites into orbit for the U.S. government. The secret mission, called NROL-172, is tied to the National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), which runs America’s spy satellite network. The launch is also part of a bigger plan to put more surveillance systems in orbit, showing how much the U.S. relies on space tech for national security.
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SpaceX Launches NROL-172 Spy Satellite Mission
On May 11, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket carried the NROL-172 spy satellites into orbit late at night. The rocket left from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.
This launch is one of many SpaceX plans to carry out as the U.S. builds a large network of satellites across different orbits. The aim is to improve how well those satellites can take images and send data back. This will then give U.S. intelligence and security agencies faster access to the data they need.
Both government and privately operated satellites are part of this growing system. SpaceX has also carried out several similar missions since 2024, with each one adding more satellites to a network that steadily expands America’s reach and eyes from space.
U.S. Boosts National Security Through Satellite Deployment
The United States is ramping up satellite launches to keep its intelligence network faster and harder to disrupt. As more satellites are placed across various orbits, they can monitor more areas from space.
Because of this, space has become a key part of the country’s national defense, with SpaceX playing a central role in launch activity. The private company carries out most Falcon 9 launches for both government and commercial missions.
A large part of these launches supports SpaceX’s own satellite internet network, Starlink. Since the U.S. government now relies heavily on SpaceX for commercial launches, the firm has greatly strengthened its position in this industry.
What Are the Best Space Stocks to Buy Right Now?
Based on TipRanks analyst consensus, well-known Space stocks such as Boeing (BA), L3Harris Technologies (LHX), and Howmet Aerospace (HWM) are rated Strong Buys. Among these stocks, LHX has the highest upside potential of 26.59% and an average price target of $389.40. For more information on their performance, ratings, and price targets, investors can visit the TipRanks Stocks Comparison Center.
